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5 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
Some dog lovers have the misfortune of being allergic to the animals they adore, and because of this there are people who have developed hypoallergenic dog breeds. These breeds may not be 100% allergen-free, but they certainly make life easier for those living with allergies. With so many to choose from, we’ve compiled a list of the most popular hypoallergenic dog breeds.
#1: Poodles, Poodles, and Poodles! The curly-coated Poodles are tops on the list because they are so versatile. They come in three sizes, several colors, and a multitude of personalities, from serene and regal to sharp and sassy. They are also, without exception, intelligent and loyal. They even smell great, at least compared to most dogs. The large Standard Poodle may be the most hypoallergenic, pound for pound, but the smallest, the tiny Toy Poodle, will obviously produce less dander. The Poodle is definitely for you if you like living with royalty. Professional grooming is a must.
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#2: Bichon Frise The small curly-coated Bichon Frise is a calm lapdog with a lower activity level, which combined with high trainability and a friendly attitude, makes him an ideal pet for many. However, a puppy’s coat quality differs markedly from that of an adult’s, and you may be allergic to only one type. The Bichon’s coat does need frequent brushing, so an allergic person might want to hand off this chore to another family member.
#3: Italian Greyhound The peaceful, elegant, and long-lived Italian Greyhound requires minimal grooming, which is definitely a benefit. He’s quiet in the house and good with other dogs and cats, but most tend to bond with just one person. They have almost no doggy odor.
#4: Portuguese Water Dog The water-loving PWD has practically the ideal coat for an allergy sufferer: It is low shedding and single. This is an active, athletic dog who nonetheless is comfortable in an apartment if given sufficient exercise. He may exhibit a definite preference for one family member over another. The breed needs frequent brushing and professional grooming.
#5 Lagotto Romagnolo With a lineage that can be traced back to Renaissance Italy, the Lagotto Romagnolo has been delighting dog lovers for centuries, thanks to its friendly demeanor and signature curls. These dogs are cloaked in a double-coat of thick, woolly hair, and they shed minimally. The Lagotto Romagnolo’s coat is also waterproof, as this breed was bred to be a waterfowl retriever.
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